Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AREFFN), High Chief Augustine Ejike Metu, has called on government agencies and regulatory bodies to emulate the leadership style of the Nigeria Customs Service in promoting trade facilitation and good governance.
Chief Metu made this appeal while speaking at the roundtable conference organized by the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP), where he delivered a critical and insightful analysis of national issues, particularly in the maritime and trade sectors.
Commending the Customs Area Controller of the Seme Command, Comptroller (Dr.) Ben Oramalugo, Metu praised his commitment to trade facilitation and revenue generation, describing his leadership as exemplary and worthy of replication across other government institutions.
Highlighting growing concerns over the importation of fake and adulterated products, Chief Metu urged relevant agencies to take firm steps against the menace. He also charged journalists to expose systemic corruption and inefficiencies, emphasizing his support for transparency and accountability.
Reacting to the recent appointment of the Comptroller-General of Customs as Chairman of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council, Metu described it as a recognition of Nigeria’s growing influence in global customs administration. He advocated for an extension of the CG’s tenure to ensure continuity and stability in policy direction.
He also addressed the suspension of the use of code 846 by the Nigeria Customs Service, urging a review of the decision to further promote seamless trade facilitation.
Chief Metu’s remarks underscored his longstanding dedication to national development, effective governance, and the adoption of technology to drive progress. He encouraged Nigerians, especially young professionals, to remain focused and embrace innovation to build a better future.
He was lauded at the forum for his pragmatic approach to problem-solving, effective communication, and ongoing contributions to national discourse. Stakeholders also urged him to continue mentoring upcoming professionals and collaborating with institutions to foster a more transparent and efficient governance system.